The Lakers want to make fans happy, they always like the good vibes that come with approval from the media.
But the person they really need to make happy? That's Luka Dončić. And on that front, multiple reports indicate that Team Luka is on board with what the Lakers have done, and is very enthusiastic about the addition of Walker Kessler, which is obviously important because he's now part of this team's Big Three going forward. And while you'd expect Luka to say nice things just to avoid creating controversial headlines, you'd also bet most of your paycheck that the Lakers didn't just spend all of their draft capital as well as actual money on a core player at a position he values highly without sign off.
And it's easy to see why he'd like this roster. Offensively, it seems to set up as the type of team he'd like, with some basket attacking ability, enough outside shooting to get the job done, and a center who can both anchor a defense and also set a screen then finish above the rim.
There's some coherence, and a good degree of continuity. Now there are also structural problems, particularly defensively and on the wing. But everyone now knows what the issues are, and can try and figure out how to solve them. It won't be easy, given the near total lack of controllable draft assets, but everyone knows what they are. Clarity can be beneficial.
Meanwhile, the Lakers are clearly trying to add more talent this summer. How is unknown, but they'll certainly explore trades, while waive-and-stretch scenarios, starting with Jarred Vanderbilt but potentially extending to Deandre Ayton as well, whether for an upside athlete like Jonathan Kuminga, or ... Rui Hachimura? He's still unsigned, and ESPN's Dave McMenamin reported Wednesday that the Lakers are still hoping to figure out a way to bring him back.
HOSTS: Andy and Brian Kamenetzky
SEGMENT 1: Luka approves!
SEGMENT 2: Why it might not be B.S...
SEGMENT 3: What about Kuminga? Or ... Rui?
Photo Credit: Alonzo Adams-Imagn Images
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